Richard O'Brian's Rocky Horror Show is a musical telling the story of an innocent, newly engaged couple whose car breaks down in a storm. They call in at a local creepy castle to ask for help, but instead have lots of sexy shenanigans with a bombshell transvestite mad scientist and his scantily clad attendants.

The Rocky Horror Show is a cult classic, and has been running since 1973. There are a lot of in-jokes and unprompted audience participation. I normally hate audience participation in almost anything (shut up and let the professionals do it!) but I made a huge exception for this - the atmosphere was really joyful and festive. As such it's probably most fun for those who've seen it before - but there's a lot to love for first timers as well. Your friend you drag along who's never heard of the Rocky Horror Show will still like it - they just might get a bit confused about some of the plot.

This is a slick, impressive show and a massive spectacle. The lighting, set, music and costumes were all flawless, and everything felt satisfyingly overblown. There wasn't a weak link in the cast, with all the actors full of energy and obviously having a great time. I was particularly impressed by Norman Pace as the likeable narrator, and Kay Murphy who gave us impressive dancing and loads of charisma as Magenta.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this show as a panto alternative for your friend group. There's audience interaction, songs, dressing up… It's basically the same thing, but much more filthy fun than tiresome "adults only" pantos.

It's always a challenge to keep such a well loved classic running and this production lived up to all my expectations - a properly joyful spectacle of silliness, songs, dancing and dirty jokes. An absolutely cracking night out!